Boc-4-Amino-L-phenylalanine (CAS 55533-24-9)

Boc-4-Amino-L-phenylalanine is a derivative of the amino acid phenylalanine, modified by the addition of a tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) protecting group attached to the amino group. This modification makes it a key compound in the field of organic chemistry, particularly in peptide synthesis, where protecting groups are essential to prevent unwanted reactions at reactive sites during the stepwise construction of peptides. The primary role of Boc-4-Amino-L-phenylalanine in research is in the synthesis of peptides and modified proteins. The Boc group specifically protects the amine functionality during the coupling of amino acids, allowing for the selective formation of peptide bonds without interference from other reactive groups. After the desired peptide chain is formed, the Boc group can be removed under mild acidic conditions, restoring the free amine. This compound is especially useful in the synthesis of peptides that require modifications at the phenylalanine position. Researchers use it to introduce labels, linkers, or other functional groups at the 4-position of the phenyl ring, which can be crucial for studying protein-protein interactions, enzyme-substrate dynamics, and other biochemical pathways. Additionally, Boc-4-Amino-L-phenylalanine is used in the development of new materials and bioactive molecules. Its ability to incorporate into larger structures without participating in unwanted side reactions makes it a valuable building block in materials science, especially for creating surfaces that interact with biological molecules.